Drug store makeup holds its own against luxury brands, expert says

Those seeking to add beauty products to their personal care selection at home without breaking the bank do have options.

Beauty expert and makeup artist Jaray Banks, of Denver, Colorado has some tips for which products to choose that aren’t considered a splurge.

“The first thing you don’t want to splurge on is going to be your (makeup) brushes,” he said.

Most, including luxury brands, use synthetic hair. Most brands, no matter the cost, are often made similarly.

Banks also says to save on foundation.

“A lot of these ingredients are the exact same,” he said.

Next on the no-splurge list? Setting spray. Start at the drug store, Banks said.

“Wet n Wild makes some great setting spray, from hydrating to oil control even just an everyday elongated wear. These are going to make sure your makeup is going to last all day and have a beautiful glow all day.”

Facial cleanser is up next.

“A lot of those luxury products that you are buying you are paying more for the fragrances that are in it. You are paying for that signature ingredients that are in it,” he said. “So why go an over splurge on a little bit of Chanel fragrance when you can have squeaky clean skin for the way lower price?”

The least amount of money you need to spend on anything would be mascara.

“It has the exact same ingredients, once again, as your favorite mascara,” Banks said.

Many beauty brands are owned by the same company, and prices vary, but they may all be made the same way. For example, L’Oréal owns Lancôme, Maybelline, Giorgio Armani and Yves Saint Laurent.